By Frank Kamuntu
The National Organic Agricultural Movement Of Uganda (NOGAMU) CEO in Uganda Mr Chariton Namuwoza has asked the government of Uganda to promote organic products and other unique agricultural commodities during the forthcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+ China Summits.
”We need to position the country as a hub for premium-quality organic products,” said Namuwoza adding that while formal certified organic agriculture took root in 1993 with cotton and chili in Northern Uganda, the sector has flourished since then and currently is a global player in organic farming, with an inherently organic agricultural system.
He said the global organic agriculture market has witnessed exponential growth, reaching an estimated $367 billion by 2026 and Uganda stands poised to leverage changing consumption patterns and increased demand for organic food.
”Uganda boasts the second-highest number of organic farmers globally and the largest land area under organic agriculture in Africa. Between 2018 and 2021, there was a significant increase in certified organic farmers, total certified organic land, and organic food exports. Uganda now contributes 12% to the country’s total agricultural exports,” said Namuwoza adding;
”The country has expanded organic production from cotton and chili to include coffee, cocoa, sesame, vanilla, chia, sunflower, fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, and more.”
He said organic farming in Uganda has various environmental impacts as it increases yields in subsistence agriculture systems, reduces greenhouse gases, improves soil carbon sequestration, enhances resilience against climate change, and contributes to better health by eliminating pesticide-related risks.
”As Uganda prepares to host global leaders, the spotlight on its organic agriculture sector promises not only to showcase agricultural accomplishments but also to advocate for sustainable and healthy food choices on a global scale,” added Namuwoza.
He appealed to the government to allow summit participants to recognize Uganda’s diverse organic offerings, and called for the private sector, including hotels and restaurants, to serve organic dishes during the summits.
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